Dive into the rich and savory world of Korean cuisine with this delectable Pork Spine Kimchi Stew (Gamja Tang). This hearty stew, a beloved comfort food in Korea, boasts a complex depth of flavor derived from tender pork spine simmered to perfection with spicy kimchi, vegetables, and aromatic spices. The result is a soul-warming broth that's both intensely flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. Imagine the satisfying slurp of tender pork, the satisfying crunch of kimchi, all enveloped in a deeply flavorful broth. It's a meal that's as comforting as it is delicious, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
This recipe will guide you through each step, from preparing the pork spine to achieving the perfect balance of spice and tang. Ready to experience the authentic taste of Korea in your own kitchen? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide to creating this unforgettable Pork Spine Kimchi Stew.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Colander
Ingredients
- Pork spine: 2kg
- Kimchi
- Water: 3-4L
- Soybean paste: 2 tablespoons
- Ginger: 1 large piece
- Soju: 1 cup
- Whole pepper: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic: 10-20 cloves
- Green onions
- Red pepper powder: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame oil
- Corn syrup
- Kimchi broth: 1 cup
- Fermented shrimp: 1-2 tablespoons
- Pickled vegetables: 1 tablespoon
- Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork Spine
- Soak the pork spine in cold water for over an hour, changing the water frequently to remove blood.
- Boil 1L of water with soybean paste and ginger slices.
- Blanch the pork spine in the boiling water for 5 minutes to remove impurities. Add soju to remove odor.
- Drain and rinse the pork spine thoroughly under cold water.
- Clean the pork spine, removing any remaining impurities between the bones.
- Clean the pot thoroughly.
Step 2. Boil the Pork Spine and Create the Broth
- In a clean pot, boil 3-4L of water with whole pepper, garlic, and green onions. Add the pork spine to the cold water.
- Boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for at least 40 minutes to an hour.
- Remove spices and green onions from the pork spine broth. Prepare kimchi by removing the cabbage filling for a cleaner stew.
Step 3. Cook the Kimchi Stew
- Add the kimchi to the pork broth. Increase the heat and add water to fully submerge the kimchi. Add red pepper powder, sesame oil, and corn syrup.
- Add kimchi broth (strained to remove debris). Simmer over medium heat for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the kimchi is fully cooked.
Step 4. Season and Finish
- Season with fermented shrimp, pickled vegetables, and salt to taste.
- Simmer for another 10 minutes after seasoning.
Read more: Instant Pot Chinese Beef Brisket Stew (蘿蔔燜牛腩) - Easy Recipe
Tips
- Preprocessing the pork spine is crucial for a delicious stew (80% of the process).
- Adding soju helps remove impurities and odor from the pork.
- Adding the pork spine to cold water results in a richer broth.
- Removing the cabbage filling from the kimchi makes the stew cleaner and more delicious.
- Adjust salt according to your kimchi’s saltiness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 2500-3000
- Fat: 150-200g
- Carbs: 70-90g
- Protein: 150-180g
FAQs
1. Can I use other cuts of pork instead of pork spine?
While pork spine gives the richest broth, you can substitute with pork shoulder, belly, or even ribs. Just adjust cooking time accordingly; tougher cuts need longer simmering.
2. How spicy is this stew? Can I adjust the spice level?
The spice level depends on the kimchi you use. For a milder stew, use less kimchi or a less spicy variety. You can also add more gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for extra heat.
3. What can I serve with Pork Spine Kimchi Stew?
It's delicious served with steamed rice, kimchi pancakes (Kimchi Jeon), or other Korean side dishes like seasoned spinach (Sigeumchi Namul) for a complete meal.
This Pork Spine Kimchi Stew recipe is a testament to the comforting power of Korean home cooking. With its rich broth and satisfying ingredients, it's a meal that will warm your soul and leave you wanting more. Enjoy the delicious journey of creating this authentic and flavorful Korean classic!